Aquatic Therapy is a 'Lifesaver' in Back Surgery Recovery

After years of minor back discomfort that evolved into severe pain and two back surgeries, 51-year-old Yolanda Taylor – who used to work in a physically demanding career as a mail carrier – now uses a cane to get around. To reduce pressure on her spine, her Cone Health physical therapists recommended aquatic therapy.

And that, it turned out, was a game changer for Yolanda physically, as well as mentally and emotionally.

“I started in aquatic therapy, and believe me when I say it was a lifesaver,” Yolanda says. “Because I do still have five herniated discs in my back, aquatic therapy is something I’m going to have to do for the rest of my life because it’s so low impact.”

At first aquatic therapy was something Yolanda “had” to do, but she now credits the Cone Health Sagewell Health & Fitness team with keeping her going, both in and out of the pool.

“It keeps me in balance so I don’t go into a funk,” she says. “I’m very aware that I have limitations now, but I’m also aware that doesn’t mean I can’t do anything. You have to recalibrate, and they helped me do that at Sagewell. Prior to going there, I felt lost. I’ve learned so much, even down to when my body starts to do certain things, what that means and how I should respond.” 

The fact that she is around others navigating physical recovery and working to regain strength has been instrumental in her own journey, too, Yolanda says. She talks about how seeing others work hard to push themselves at Sagewell motivates her to do the same – and that’s especially helpful on days when she doesn’t feel like giving it her all.

“We give each other smiles and thumbs up, and all those things matter,” she says. “My head is up and I’m moving forward – even on days when my body’s saying, ‘Not today!’ I tell myself it’s okay – we’ll keep going.”

Yolanda started physical therapy in 2024, and then joined Sagewell Health & Fitness in spring 2025. She says she’s thankful to be able to stay in the same familiar, encouraging environment, and she enjoys seeing the same smiling faces to keep her feeling supported.

“Sagewell has become my new family since my family isn’t here in North Carolina,” Yolanda says. “This is a great space, great tools, great people here, a great facility – it really is. Thanks to them, I’m not afraid or fearful – I’m looking forward to learning a new way to live and then just making the best of it.”

Contact Sagewell’s Health and Fitness team today to meet your wellness goals!